This Crockpot Dr. Pepper Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! It mixes ground meat with tasty seasonings and sweet Dr. Pepper for a flavor that’s hard to resist.
The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you time to sip some Dr. Pepper yourself! 😊 I love serving this meatloaf with mashed potatoes—it’s always a hit at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just keep in mind it may need extra moisture!
Ritz Crackers: These give the meatloaf a lovely texture and flavor. If you’re gluten-free or don’t have them, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or plain breadcrumbs instead.
Onion & Garlic: They add great depth of flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can skip them or use onion powder. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder is a good substitute in a pinch.
Dr. Pepper: This is the star ingredient! It adds sweetness and moisture. If you prefer, you can use another soda like root beer or cola for a similar effect. Just be aware of the flavor it might change slightly.
Ketchup & BBQ Sauce: They contribute to the tangy glaze. If you want to mix it up, use sriracha for a kick or hot sauce for a different flavor profile!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Shaped Meatloaf for the Crockpot?
Shaping the meatloaf correctly is key to ensure it cooks evenly and fits well in the crockpot. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- After mixing the ingredients, form the meat into a loaf shape using your hands. Make it about the size of a standard loaf pan.
- Make sure the loaf is not too wide, as it needs to fit comfortably in your crockpot without touching the sides.
- For even cooking, try to shape it so that it’s evenly thick all around.
This will help the meatloaf cook evenly, so you don’t end up with parts that are overcooked or undercooked. Plus, it looks great when serving!
How to Make Crockpot Dr. Pepper Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or plain breadcrumbs)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then you’ll need to cook it in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So plan for a total of about 7-8 hours for a delicious, slow-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined.
2. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape that will fit snugly in your crockpot. Make sure it is evenly thick, so it cooks uniformly.
3. Place Meatloaf in the Crockpot:
Carefully transfer the shaped meatloaf into the crockpot. It’s okay if it touches the sides a little; just ensure it’s well positioned.
4. Mix the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, Dr. Pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well blended. This delicious glaze will keep your meatloaf moist and flavorful!
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Pour half of the glaze over the meatloaf in the crockpot, ensuring it gets coated nicely.
6. Cook the Meatloaf:
Cover your crockpot and set it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Add More Glaze:
About halfway through cooking, pour the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This extra glaze will add even more flavor and keep it moist!
8. Serve it Up:
When the meatloaf is done cooking, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Place it on a serving plate and let it sit for a few minutes to rest.
9. Enjoy:
Drizzle any juices from the crockpot over the meatloaf if you like. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Dr. Pepper Meatloaf!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Turkey or Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but they tend to be leaner, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash of broth or an extra egg, to keep the meatloaf from being dry.
What If I Don’t Have Ritz Crackers?
No problem! You can use any plain breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute. Just ensure they provide a similar texture to bind the meatloaf.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Yes! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the meatloaf and place it in a loaf pan, then bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Don’t forget to glaze it halfway through!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers!